Economics

The eurozone's two largest economies both performed worse than expected in the second quarter, raising fresh fears over economic stability in the currency bloc.

Markets across Asia and the US climbed on Thursday, following a bout of soft economic data which saw retail sales in the US stall.

Chancellor George Osborne is set to rule out a sale of Lloyds Banking Group shares to retail investors before next year's general election, according to reports.

UK unemployment dropped to a near six-year low but sterling has fallen against the dollar after the Bank of England cut wage forecasts, suggesting rates will remain on hold for the foreseeable future.

Stock markets recovered from last week's bout of anxiety this morning as geopolitical concerns eased, with safe haven bond yields climbing and shares rallying.

US treasury yields have fallen to their lowest level since last summer as concerns over Iraq and Ukraine spur a fresh flight to safety.

Fund managers have a "critical" imperative to warn clients about the risks of chasing yield despite low volatility, former monetary policymakers have warned.

UK and European equity markets have pulled back again this morning after two mega M&A deals fell through and geopolitical tensions increased.

Liontrust chief executive John Ions has sold shares in the company for a total consideration of £486,750, according to regulatory filings.

The threat of rising interest rates to investors' portfolios - in particular their fixed income positions - is becoming more apparent, but can more niche areas like senior secured loans protect them from losses?